Soundcore A3949 Review – True Wireless Earbuds with Big Bass

Description

Soundcore P20i True Wireless Earbuds Review: Surprisingly Good for the Price

I have to admit, I didn’t expect much when I first unwrapped the Soundcore P20i True Wireless Earbuds. They’re sleek, compact, and the matte black design gives them a premium look. But in my experience, earbuds often look better than they sound—especially at this price. These, however, were a pleasant surprise.

The Good, the Great, and the Unexpected

The 10mm audio drivers in these earbuds deliver a punchy bass that completely caught me off guard. I tested them with everything from Fleetwood Mac’s “The Chain” to EDM tracks like Martin Garrix’s “Animals,” and the bass was consistently rich without overwhelming the mids and highs. For earbuds that don’t claim to have active noise cancellation, they still isolate sound decently, making them perfect for morning subway commutes.

Another feature I absolutely love is the 22 EQ presets available through the Soundcore app. I was skeptical about the app, but it turns out to be a game-changer. Whether I’m in the mood for a bass-heavy sound or something more balanced for podcasts, the app lets me customize the audio just how I like it. Plus, the “Find My Earbuds” feature has saved me twice already when one rogue earbud decided to go exploring under the couch.

My Experience

Using these earbuds has been a breeze. The Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity ensures a stable connection, and they pair instantly with my phone as soon as they’re out of the case. I even got my dad to try them, and for someone who struggles with anything tech-related, he found the touch controls intuitive. A double-tap to pause, a long press to skip tracks—it’s simple and reliable.

Battery life is another highlight. The 10 hours of listening time per charge, plus the 30-hour total with the case, means I can go days without needing to recharge. Quick charging is also a lifesaver; in just 10 minutes, you get 2 hours of playback. For a busy workday, that’s a massive win.

The Downsides

Not everything is perfect, though. The dual microphones for calls are decent but not outstanding. During a call with my sister, she mentioned I sounded a bit muffled when I was outdoors. If crystal-clear call quality is a priority, you might want to look elsewhere.

Also, while the IPX5 water-resistance rating is great for workouts or light rain, these aren’t waterproof. Don’t accidentally drop them in the pool like I did with my last pair of earbuds.

Comparing to Competitors

I’ve used Apple AirPods and Samsung Galaxy Buds before, and here’s the deal: the Soundcore P20i doesn’t have the same polish. AirPods have superior mic quality and seamless Apple ecosystem integration, while Galaxy Buds edge out in sound clarity. However, neither comes close to the P20i’s value-for-money proposition. At a fraction of the cost, you’re getting solid sound quality, customizable EQ options, and incredible battery life.

Is It Worth It?

Considering the features packed into this small device, the price is more than justified. Sure, audiophiles might prefer higher-end options, but for casual users like me who want solid sound and dependable performance, the Soundcore P20i ticks all the right boxes.

Pros

• Powerful Bass: The 10mm drivers deliver rich, deep bass, perfect for music lovers.
• Customizable EQ: 22 presets via the Soundcore app allow for tailored listening experiences.
• Long Battery Life: Up to 10 hours per charge and 30 hours with the case is a standout feature.
• Lightweight Design: Compact case with an attached lanyard for portability.
• Quick Charging: Get 2 hours of playback with just a 10-minute charge.

Cons

• Call Quality: The dual microphones could be better, especially in noisy environments.
• No Active Noise Cancellation: While decent at isolating sound, ANC would have been a welcome addition.
• Limited Multi-Device Pairing: Switching between devices isn’t as seamless as higher-end competitors.
• Small Charging Cable: The included USB-C cable is quite short, which might be inconvenient for some setups.

What Comes with the Product

• Soundcore P20i True Wireless Earbuds
• Charging Case (Black, with a lanyard attached)
• Three Pairs of Ear Tips (Small, Medium, Large)
• USB-C to USB-A Charging Cable
• User Manual and Warranty Card

How to Use Guide

1. Charge the Earbuds: Remove them from the case, peel off the protective film, and place them back to charge.
2. Pairing: Open the case, remove the earbuds, and they’ll automatically enter pairing mode. Connect via your device’s Bluetooth menu.
3. Touch Controls:
   • Double-tap to play/pause.
   • Long press to skip tracks.
   • Customize controls via the Soundcore app.
4. Adjust EQ Settings: Download the Soundcore app, pair the earbuds, and choose from 22 presets or create your own.
5. Find My Earbuds: If lost, use the app to make the earbuds emit a sound for easy locating.

Expert Tips & Recommendations

• Optimize Fit: Experiment with the included ear tips to find the size that offers the best comfort and sound isolation.
• Use the EQ Presets: Take advantage of the app to customize audio settings for specific genres like rock, pop, or classical.
• Keep the Case Clean: Dust can accumulate in the charging contacts, so wipe them regularly with a soft cloth.
• Avoid Overcharging: While the case protects against overcharging, unplugging once fully charged can extend battery life.
• Ideal for Workouts: The water-resistant design makes these earbuds great for gym sessions or jogging in light rain.

Warranty & Support Information

The Soundcore P20i comes with an 18-month warranty, which is impressive for a product at this price. Should any issues arise, Anker’s customer service is known for being responsive and reliable. Their website offers a detailed FAQ section, and you can easily reach out via email or phone for claims. Additionally, the Soundcore app provides troubleshooting tips and firmware updates to keep your earbuds running smoothly.

Additional information